New Orleans Saints

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The NFL Draft season is in full force now with pro days wrapping up and free agency in the waning stages. This time of the draft process is full of rumors, smoke screens and what-ifs, and it’s no easy task to sort through what teams believe on film, what GMs may want to do on draft day, and what they float to the media to keep other teams off-balance.

In this mock, Chip Kelly goes with a former player, the Cardinals select a quarterback at No. 7, and the Jets take the most intriguing prospect in the entire draft at No. 9.

Why he's worthy: Joeckel was a first team All-SEC and All-American junior, winning the Outland Trophy for the country's top offensive lineman.

Athleticism describes Joeckel's game to a T. He's so athletic it's almost criminal. The way he pushed around defensive ends each week was fun to watch, especially in a conference known for superior defensive linemen. As the primary protector of two mobile quarterbacks in Johnny Manziel and Ryan Tannehill, Joeckel had to be athletic to hold his block for as long as he did.

Joeckel is on the same talent wavelength as former first-round picks Matt Kalil, Jake Long and Joe Thomas.

The Raiders could use help at every position, and with Smith off the board, they can take the best player available. Floyd is an impressive athlete who can play multiple spots in the line.

Sharrif Floyd profile
Ht: 6-3 | Wt: 303
Born: May 28, 1992

NFL comparison: Muhammad Wilkerson

A rough childhood did not prevent Floyd from earning national accolades for his play in high school, as he won the 2009 Maxwell Football Club's National Player of the Year award. And by the end of his sophomore year at Florida (he racked up 1.5 sacks against Ohio State in the team's Gator Bowl win), Floyd began showing scouts the athleticism, strength, and motor they require in a top tackle prospect.

He was an incredibly important and versatile defender up front for Florida, playing both one and two-gap techniques at defensive end, one and three-technique, and as a true zero-technique nose tackle. While Floyd is rough around the edges and will take time to develop as a two-gapper, his quickness, athleticism, and scheme versatility will make him coveted by 4-3 and 3-4 teams alike in the first round. — NFL.com

Kelly says he wants more size and versatility on defense. Though Utah DT Star Lotulelei would give the Eagles an inside standout, this dynamic defender—and Kelly knows him well—may have more value.

Dion Jordan profile
Ht: 6-7 | Wt: 243
Born: March 5, 1990

Compares to: Chandler Jones, DE, New England Patriots
Although Jones is stronger and a bit more polished at this point in his development, scouts see that type of potential for Jordan plus he brings much more position versatility and upside. — CBSSports.com

Jordan began his college career at tight end before moving to defense as a sophomore. He was a finalist for the Butkus Award, given to the top linebacker in the country.

Despite his height, Jordan is a fluid athlete and at times covered college receivers. That means he could be used as an outside linebacker in a 3-4, but he projects best as a pass rusher. He can use his height and wingspan with his speed off the edge to elude blockers.

He will need to add bulk, but Jordan shows ability to handle running plays with intensity in pursuit worthy of a safety. He also must develop as a front-seven defensive player as he learns his position. He is a rare athlete, intense and having great potential.

Jordan missed the Senior Bowl and early offseason draft preparation because of surgery for a torn shoulder labrum, so the Combine will be a critical test.

Compares to: Julian Peterson
Jordan offers a unique blend of comfort in space, length and pass rush ability. His box scores may not appeal to everyone, but Jordan was frequently asked to cover receivers or tight ends after lining up in the slot opposite them. His future appears to be at strongside linebacker in a four man front, with the ability to rush the passer, or as an outside linebacker in a three-man front. — NFL.com

Jordan has the frame of Jevon Kearse (the former Florida Gators/Tennessee Titans and Philadelphia Eagles player who was known as "The Freak"). He is more developed in his
upper body that his lower body, so he has potential to reached the 260-pound range. — SeniorBowl.com

With Jeff Backus retiring and recent draft pick Riley Reiff destined for the right side, the Lions stay in state and add a franchise left tackle who should allow Stafford to take the next step as a top-flight quarterback.

Eric Fisher profile
Ht: 6-8 | Wt: 305
Born: Jan. 5, 1991

Compares to: Nate Solder, T, New England Patriots

Like Solder, Fisher's height can make him vulnerable to undersized power rushers. His length, power and impressive athleticism, however, certainly suggest that Pro Bowls could be in his future as a prototypical blindside pass protector in today's NFL.—CBSSports.com

NFL comparison: Joe Staley

Any tackle coming out of Central Michigan will be compared to 2007 first-round pick Joe Staley, who is among the NFL's top linemen. But if there’'s one player with the potential to meet those high expectations, it’s Fisher. The top left tackle prospect of the senior class, Fisher opened scouts' eyes with his pro-caliber frame and eye-popping agility in the open field, which he should be able to maintain while working in an NFL strength program. Among all other players, Fisher benefited the most when two top junior tackle prospects decided to return for their senior season. With a solid performance during the Senior Bowl, Fisher could solidify his evaluation as a top-15 pick.—NFL.com

Overshadowed by his high-profile teammates like fellow corner Dre Kirkpatrick over the span of two seasons, Milliner has made plays when given the chance (six interceptions, 38 pass break-ups in three years starting). He is ready to use his pro-ready size, athleticism and change-of-direction ability to become a household name in the NFL after winning back-to-back BCS Championships at Alabama. Milliner’s role grew extensively as a junior, and he showed the skills to be a first-round pick in the NFL. — NFL.com

Why he’s worthy: Milliner erased the loss of Kirkpatrick in his first year as a starter, and he helped put an exclamation point on the end of the word "secondary" when everyone had a question mark behind it.

The former five-star blue chip blossomed into one of the best corners in the Nick Saban era. And yet, teams continued to pick on Milliner throughout the season. One day we'll know why Notre Dame tried to go right at Milliner in Miami. He made play after play on bigger receivers and tight ends.

There is little doubt Milliner is ready for the big stage in the NFL, and he is one of the few that certainly lived up to the five-star hype.

With Lane Johnson still on the board, it’s tough to pass up an offensive tackle, but the Cardinals opt for Wison. Of the QBs in this class after Geno Smith, he fits Bruce Arians’ system best.Tyler Wilson profileHt: 6-3 | Wt: 220
Saturday Down South's No. 23 SEC player of 2012

Why he's worthy: Arkansas didn't have the type of year everyone imagined after Wilson announced he would return for his senior season. After all, he had one of the finest game-day play callers in the country in Bobby Petrino. But it all went south, fast, in a series of events that are almost as bizarre as the Manti Te'o hoax in which the head Hog wrecked his hog and the Razorbacks' season.

Wilson was injured the second game of the season against Louisiana-Monroe, which contributed to the biggest shock of the early season, where he got a concussion and missed the one game he returned to play: Alabama. But he lit it up after that.

To add to the pressure on Wilson, Knile Davis didn't show up to give the Hogs a balance in the running game. So, in order to stop Arkansas' offense, you stop Tyler Wilson. Even Peyton Manning would have trouble with a one-dimensional offense like that.

Wilson finished fourth in the SEC in passing with 3,387 yards and sixth in touchdowns. And while the season as a whole was a major letdown, Wilson left it all out on the field.

Nassib seems to be getting more and more attention as a prospect worthy of a first-round pick. I view him as superior to Matt Barkely on film, and the Bills may feel the same way.

Ryan Nassib profileHeight: 6-2 | Weight: 227

Compares to: Jake Locker

Nassib doesn’t have exceptional size or athleticism, but the muscle bound thrower has a rifle for an arm and was finally comfortable in the Syracuse offense in 2012, even though his happy feet might suggest differently. The senior might have a tendency to sail targets and force some poor reads, but multiple teams will likely consider adding Nassib as an early starter, not just a backup or developmental prospect as many suspected prior to this season. —NFL.com

After reviewing film on the still-raw Ansah, it’s clear he could handle the 3-4 edge rusher role, with the ability to play with his hand in the dirt on third down. His versatility should be appealing to Rex Ryan.

Ansah grew up playing soccer but was recruited to BYU by a Mormon missionary who thought his frame would lend itself to football. He enrolled at BYU in 2008 and participated on the track team in 2009 before joining the football team in 2010.

Ansah stood out at the Senior Bowl with his outstanding performance. He seemed more comfortable in scrimmage than running drills, and he flourished in the game, with seven tackles (3.5 for a loss), 1.5 sacks, a forced fumble and a batted-down pass.

In the pass rush, Ansah showed both burst around the edge and raw power, driving the North offensive tackles back on with his bull rush. Against the run, he showed the ability to shed blocks and slide inside to make a tackle. He also maintained the edge when the North attempted to run an end around with Denard Robinson.

A factor that should be taken into consideration is Ansah's efforts came against mid-round offensive line prospects. — MLive.com

NFL comparison: Justin Tuck

It is amazing how far Ansah's technique has come in such a short amount of time, not to mention how much he has transformed his body to fit the role coaches want him to play. That sizable frame coupled with outstanding closing speed and natural power will captivate many, making a top-20 selection possible. Ansah is rough around the edges, but the number of height/weight/speed athletes with positional versatility selected in that area in recent years point to a rise up draft boards. — NFL.com

Compares to: Jason Pierre-Paul

Ansah is not the same terror-off-the-edge pass-rusher that Pierre-Paul was coming out of South Florida, but he's similarly gifted and plays with greater commitment to the run. Like there was with Pierre-Paul, there is some risk factor with Ansah, but his upside is through the roof. — CBSSports.com

The Titans need help inside and should have multiple options at No. 10 overall. Richardson is a versatile athlete who can provide the inside pass rush this team needs.

Sheldon Richardson profile
Ht: 6-4| Wt: 295 Born: Jan. 1, 1989

NFL comparison: Cullen Jenkins

Richardson spent a year in junior college, and then missed most of his sophomore season because of injury. He had a superb 2012 campaign, and his role grew extensively with Missouri using him in a variety of roles. With Richardson's incredible athleticism, he figures to be one of the top combine performers and will likely warrant a top-20 selection. — NFL.com

NFL comparison: Jay Ratliff

Like Ratliff, Richardson is a play-making defensive tackle. Richardson is faster and more athletic than Ratliff, but neither player will kill you at the point. — NBCDFW.com

The Chargers are a good bet to trade up for one of top offensive tackles in this class, especially if Johnson falls past the top six picks. He could fill the left tackle role—something Jared Gaither wasn't able to do.

Lane Johnson profile
Ht: 6-7 | Wt: 303

Johnson played quarterback at Kilgore College, but switched to tight end, which is where he began his Oklahoma career. He changed again to defensive end, then to offensive tackle before his junior season.

Over that span, he transitioned himself from a tall, lanky quarterback to an imposing, powerful offensive tackle. But even as he gained weight, Johnson kept his speed, which he demonstrated throughout Senior Bowl week.

"A lot of people underestimate me," Johnson said. "I take people's criticism to heart. It's what fuels me and drives me to get where I'm at today." — NewsOK.com

Johnson was one of several intriguing tackle prospects participating in the Senior Bowl. He's also a player to watch in a solid year for offensive linemen.

For teams such as the Bears, who will be moving to a more wide-open, versatile offense under new coach Marc Trestman, that's great news.

It's no secret that the Bears are looking at offensive linemen, whether it be in the draft or free agency. General manager Phil Emery has said several times that he needs to give quarterback Jay Cutler better protection.

For the Bears, who have the 20th overall pick, a fast-rising player such as Johnson (6-7, 302) could be there for the taking. — Chicago Sun-Times

Werner belongs in the top five talent-wise, and Detroit may be his most likely landing spot. But if he slips this far, the Dolphins would love to scoop up a talented, NFL-ready starter to pair with Cameron Wake.

Bjoern Werner profileHt: 6-3 | Wt: 266Born: Aug. 30, 1990

NFL comparison: Chris Long

Born and raised in Berlin, Werner joined a club team before moving to the United States as a high school exchange student in Salisbury, Conn., playing two seasons and emerging as a top recruit. He developed his football knowledge and technique substantially the past five years, flashing a top football IQ and instincts.

Werner has the frame and athleticism to win with speed or power and, although he needs to improve his motor for all four quarters, he often looks like he’s playing at a different speed than everyone else.

He has proved to be much more than just a pass rusher, showing much better awareness against the run and at the line of scrimmage to swat passes down — a possible top-five overall draft choice with the potential to be an impact starting strong-side DE in a four-man front. — NFL.com

Without a deep football background, Werner has much to learn. He lacks natural start/stop explosion and must improve his leverage and awareness against the run. He must maintain his intensity throughout the game.

NFL Network draft analyst Mike Mayock doesn't believe Werner is top-10 material and said Werner could be overvalued, especially if he excels at the Combine.

Assuming the Bucs aren’t able to acquire Darrelle Revis, they will need to address the secondary. Rhodes has the physical mentality this defensive unit needs.

Xavier Rhodes profile
Ht: 6-2 | Wt: 217
Born: June 19, 1990

Rhodes has the cover skills to be an NFL cornerback. Most believe this is where he will play, but with his size Rhodes also has the ability to play strong safety. Ultimately, we believe Rhodes will be an NFL cornerback.

The one thing that Rhodes has never shown is top-end speed. Teams will want to see that explosive burst expected of defensive backs at Pro Day. Rhodes also must have a good showing in agility drills. He will win teams over with his knowledge of the game and physical play. While he hardly gave up big plays, he could do a lot to improve his draft stock if he's able to post a sub-4.5 40-yard dash time. — Rivals.com

Adding a receiver is a must for the Panthers, who want to give Cam Newton a young new weapon. But they wouldn’t be able to pass on Lotulelei—a top-five talent who could shore up the defensive front against the run.

Lotulelei will be a 24-year-old NFL rookie in 2013. He did not play during the 2009 season, but signed with Utah and started three of 13 games in 2010. In 2011 as a junior, he started all 13 games, was named first team All­-Pac 12 and was awarded the Morris Trophy, which recognizes the conference's best defensive lineman. — Senior Bowl profile

Repeated as first-team All-Pac 12 in 2012. Finished regular season with team-high 11 tackles for loss, five sacks, four pass breakups, four fumble recoveries, three forced fumbles.
Compares to: Kevin Williams, Minnesota Vikings — While a touch shorter than the Vikings' former All-Pro, Lotulelei offers a similarly dominant combination of quickness and power and should one day rank among the league's best interior defensive linemen. — CBSSports.com

Mingo spent the past six weeks adding bulk after playing as a 230-pound end for the Tigers.

"The most important thing, I think, to show is that I've increased weight — putting on a lot of weight, putting on a lot of size," Mingo said on NFL AM. "I'm weighing 245 now. I played most of the season at 230."

Despite that weight gain, Mingo says he has actually gotten faster, and he wants NFL teams to know he'll be able to play either defensive end or outside linebacker in the pros.

"I've been working on linebacking skills, driving back in coverage — that was something I was lacking at LSU. Working on getting my hands better," Mingo said. — ProFootballTalk.NBCSports.com

The consensus on the draft stock of LSU defensive end/linebacker Barkevious Mingo at this point is there is no consensus. Many draft experts project Mingo as a top-10 prospect, but former NFL scout Daniel Jeremiah said there are more than a few teams not sold on Mingo as a top-10 pick.

At this point in the draft process, Jeremiah said, imagining Mingo falling to the New Orleans Saints at No. 15 overall isn't out of the question, and chances of Mingo falling to the Saints are better than "a prayer."

"There's some who aren't as high on him as people may think just because he played so light. He was not productive this year," Jeremiah said when asked about the Saints' chances of drafting Mingo.

"You can watch him in four or five games and you can see him not make five plays," Jeremiah said. "He's incredibly athletic and that's all pretty, but at the end of the day, you look down at your paper and you look for the impact plays that you've written down and they don't exist. He did not have a good year. He was much better the year before. He played more snaps this year, which didn't help."

Jeremiah said he was confident the Saints would have no qualms about drafting Mingo to help their new 3-4 defensive scheme to play outside linebacker.

"He's going to destroy the combine," Jeremiah said. "That can help your stock and move him right back up. He's not somebody I would say is a consensus top-10 pick. I know numerous teams that don't have him up that high." — NOLA.com

The Rams must continue to add playmakers, especially after losing Danny Amendola in free agency. Patterson isn’t a sure thing, but he has the big-play ability Jeff Fisher loves in his offensive pieces.

Why he's worthy: Patterson arrived at Tennessee from Hutchinson Community College in Kansas with lofty expectations after making JUCO players look silly on film, and he left for the NFL about as quickly as he suited up in Volunteer orange.

Patterson didn't waste anytime announcing his presence against NC State, either, as he torched the Wolfpack's vaunted secondary. He caught six passes for 93 yards and a touchdown, and he also rushed two times for 71 yards and a touchdown.

Everyone remembers the end around he took to the house from 67 yards out, but no one can figure out why Derek Dooley and his staff didn't give him the ball 12 to 15 times per game. Patterson just touched it an average of five times on offense in eight conference games. That's far too few for such a talented specimen.

Patterson also led the SEC in all-purpose yards. He was good for 154 total yards per game. He caught 46 catches for 778 yards and five touchdowns, and he led the SEC in kick return yardage with 24 attempts for 671 yards and one touchdown.

NFL comparison: Demaryius Thomas
He may be considered raw with his ability to handle physical coverage, but Patterson is one of the more naturally talented pass catchers to come along in the last few years. He only has one year of tape against FBS level of competition, but from the first game Patterson showed his versatility by making plays from a variety of alignments. If the Vol can start using his hands to release off the line and tighten up some technique issues, he should be one of this class' top playmakers. He should be a first-round selection and could be the first receiver off the board. — NFL.com

Hankins is a load to handle with impressive fluidity and coordination skills for a big man, playing with intensity. He lined up outside at DE and inside at DT. Hankins rarely left the field, but he often looked fatigued and worn down. That means his snaps (and weight) will must be monitored.

Hankins has a rare combination of size, strength and foot quickness to be a force against both the run and the pass. Although he looks half-speed at times, he can tear through blocks like paper. Plus, coaches say good things about his football character.

A potential top-12 pick, he has the versatility to line up as a traditional 3-technique DT in a four-man front or an effective two-gapping 0-technique NT for a 3-4 defense. — NFL.com

Why he's worthy: The 2012 first team All-American and All-SEC member capped off an extraordinary career by winning three national championships in four seasons. He's one of the most decorated players on one of the best offensive lines in the history of college football.

Warmack developed into college football's best guard and will likely be the first guard selected in the first round since 1997.

A polished pass blocker, Warmack is by far the biggest road grader guard in college football. And what he might lack in overall athleticism, he makes up for it by being a complete student of the game, and with his desire to be the best at his position.

First it was Tebowing; Second, it was Kaepernicking, and now it's Te'oing. But the newest trend will be Warmacking. That's where Wamarck promptly lifts his jersey to expose his belly just like he did throughout his career at Bama.

"Basically you just lift your stomach up and take a picture of it and put it on some social media," Warmack said. "I'm trying to promote that.

"I've been lifting up my jersey for two years now. That's kind of like my thing."

Compares to: Will Shields, G, Kansas City Chiefs

Warmack is a rare prospect. While perhaps a tad shorter than ideal, he uses his natural leverage advantage to get under opponents' pads, driving them off of the ball in the running game and anchoring in pass protection. His lateral agility and balance make him effective getting to and blocking at the second level and handling quicker pass rushers, as well. — CBSSports.com

Like the highly instinctive and versatile Weddle, Vaccaro has the athleticism and size to line up wherever his NFL team needs him most. Vaccaro hasn't yet shown the same ball skills as the Chargers' Pro Bowler but showed signs of improving in this area as a senior. — CBSSports.com

It didn't take long for Brown to make an impact at Kansas State and become the Wildcats' most consistent force on defense. Some will question his size, but Brown plays much bigger than his frame suggests because of strong hands and a physical attitude on contact. He projects as either an inside linebacker or weak-side prospect. — NFL.com

Compares to: Curtis Lofton

Like Lofton, Brown plays bigger than he looks and will quickly prove himself to be a vacuum tackler in the NFL. To emerge as one of the elite at their position, however, each has to show a greater ability to cause turnovers. — CBSSports.com

Without a true strong safety, the Bengals add arguably the top safety in this class. Cyprien has the range, ball skills, and big-play ability for instant success in the NFL.

Jonathan Cyprien profile
Ht: 6-0 | Wt: 217

NFL comparison: Jordan Babineaux

One of the hardest-hitting safeties in the 2013 class, Cyprien offers enough range to be reliable in box coverage while displaying an aggressive mentality againt ball carriers and receivers. He plays smart, and that might be the most improtant trait when looking at safeties. However, despite it being unique, Cyprien doesn't have a very well known name ... yet. — NFL.com

Despite adding Jake Long, the Rams’ offensive line isn’t complete yet. After finding their feature receiver earlier, the Rams add Cooper to get the running game on track.

Jonathan Cooper profile
Ht: 6-3 | Wt. 310

NFL comparison: Ben Grubbs

Cooper, an extremely athletic left guard, racked up a number of all-conference awards during his four years starting, capping it off with a first-team All-American selection as a senior. He has the athleticism to play in a number of different schemes. Because of his ability to lead the way on runs and outstanding pass protection skills, he projects to be one of the first guards selected in the draft. He showed improved on his functional strength in his senior season, but he needs to continue adding bulk and strength. – NFL.com

This is a bit of a luxury pick for the Vikings, but they need to start adding pieces to the front seven of a defense that’s aging quickly. Jared Allen is in the last year of his contract, and they don’t have much depth behind Brian Robison and him.

Tank Carradine profileHeight: 6-4 | Weight: 276

Compares to: Justin Tuck

On most other defenses, Carradine would have started as a first-year junior college transfer, but Bjoern Werner and Brandon Jenkins limited his snaps in 2011. Still, he flashed real athleticism and strength and was able to take the starting right defensive end spot by the horns when Jenkins was sidelined for the season. Carradine appeared to be headed for a first-round selection, but a torn ACL will limit his work prior to April's draft. The talent is certainly there, however. —NFL.com

Despite being a playoff team, the Colts have a lot of holes on offense and defense. Adding the best player available would be a wise move—especially if that player is a pass rusher who could replace Dwight Freeney.

Corey Lemonier profile
Ht: 6-3 | Wt: 255

NFL comparison: Andre Branch

Lemonier is a long and projectable athlete who already has a nice outside rip move. He was productive as a junior but saw his play decline as a senior. While his body type is a better fit for 3-4 outside linebacker than 4-3 defensive end, his hip movement appears to be too stiff to make the transition. Lemonier also lacks powerful hands and sometime struggles to turn the corner.

The fact that Lemonier does not quit on plays, and has a good motor, combined with his athletic potential will likely cast him as a second or third rounder, despite serious questions about the translating of his play to the next level. — NFL.com

The Vikings’ decision to trade Percy Harvin wasn’t a major surprise based on his recent history with the team. Replacing him won’t be easy, but Austin brings the same type of playmaking ability.Tavon Austin profileHt: 5-9 | Wt: 174
NFL comparison: Randall Cobb

Don't blink when Austin has the ball in his hands, as his elite acceleration helped him finish second in the country in all-purpose yards as a senior and lead the FBS as a junior. Don't be surprised if he turns out to be a first round pick or the first wide receiver off the board, as he is a huge playmaker on offense and special teams in the NFL despite the slight build that scared scouts away from West Virginia offensive stars in the past. — NFL.com

Why he’s worthy: One of the most electrifying and game changing defensive players to ever suit up in the red and black almost never had the opportunity to do so because of an injury. Few thought the two-time consensus All-American Jarvis Jones would ever play football again, much less dominate opponents the way he did in just two seasons.

Jones transferred from Southern Cal where the medical staff would not clear him from a neck injury in 2009 against Oregon. But luckily for Mark Richt and Todd Grantham, Jones chose to come back home and was cleared by the Georgia medical staff. And what a profound impact he had.

Getting arguably the best receiver in the class late in the first round is a great value for Houston, which needs to find an adequate complement to Andre Johnson.

Keenan Allen profile Ht: 6-3 | Wt: 210
Born: April 27, 1992

Allen decided to skip drills at the Scouting Combine because of swelling in his left knee. Allen had a grade 2 PCL sprain in that knee in late November when Cal was playing Utah, and it ended his season. Allen, whom NFL Network draft analyst Mike Mayock compared to Baltimore Ravens star Anquan Boldin, got an MRI exam and saw noted orthopedic surgeon Dr. James Andrews, but his injury should not ever require surgical intervention. He was scheduled to have a follow-up exam with Andrews on March 11.

He will run routes only at Cal's pro day March 14 and have a separate pro day in the first week of April where any team that wants to see him run the 40 or test him in the vertical or do any physical drills can would be able to do so. — CBSSports.com

An extremely highly regarded prep prospect who was recruited by Nick Saban to Alabama to play safety, Allen elected to make a late switch to Cal to play with his half-brother, quarterback Zach Maynard, who had transferred to Berkeley after initially playing at the University of Buffalo.

While a highly productive player against quality competition, Allen does not boast the elite size-speed combination that has led A.J. Green, Julio Jones and Justin Blackmon to earn a top 10 selection in recent years. Allen is athletic and capable of turning short catches into long gains due to his agility, balance and vision but does not possess elite acceleration. Allen's size, physicality and relatively precise route-running should help him emerge as a legitimate No. 1 wideout in the NFL, especially in a timing-based West Coast Offense that caters to his strengths. — Rob Rang, NFLDraftScout.com

NFL comparison: Jordy Nelson

A smooth outside receiver, Allen has the height, speed and ability to win jump balls required of a No. 1 target. Maynard’s play regressed in 2012, causing Allen’s production to fall. He still displayed all the skills and talents he showcased during his uber-productive sophomore season, and he figures to go in the top 25 selections if his knee and ankle check out medically. — NFL.com

The Broncos need to start thinking about Champ Bailey’s successor at the No. 1 cornerback spot, and Banks provides great value, has feature cornerback upside and can start right away.

Johnthan Banks profile
Ht: 6-2 | Wt: 185

NFL comparison: Aqib Talib

SEC receivers were hoping Banks would head to the NFL after his second-team All-SEC junior season, but they had to deal with the tall, lean three-year starter's ball skills and competitive streak for another season before he headed off to challenge pro receivers. He has experience playing a number of spots in the secondary, beginning his career as a safety before settling on the boundary corner and nickel spots. His skills in man coverage were underused at Mississippi State. If Banks can keep adding weight to his long, wiry frame, he has the potential to be an excellent press-man corner, a skill that will make get him selected in the top 40 picks. — NFL.com

The Falcons shouldn’t delay the search for Tony Gonzalez’s replacement any longer—especially with Eifert available. He can complement Gonzalez well in Year 1 and take over in Year 2.

Tyler Eifert profileHt: 6-6 | Wt: 251

NFL comparison: Greg Olsen

Eifert was a 215-pound TE out of high school who didn't receive many scholarship offers, but he developed into one of the top all-around tight ends to enter the NFL draft in recent memory. He was Notre Dame's No. 1 offensive weapon in 2012, lining up as a wide receiver or as a traditional TE. Defensive coordinators were forced to game plan against him.

Eifert is a fluid receiver with vacuum hands and the hand/eye coordination to make tough catches. He doesn't create a lot of space, but he catches in traffic and shows outstanding tracking and high-pointing ability. While soft-spoken, he is an animal on the field.

He is a much better blocker than given credit, improving in leaps and bounds the past three years with excellent effort. Eifert projects as a starting TE with excellent potential as both a receiver and blocker. — NFL.com

Trufant may be more of a second-round value, but after a solid Senior Bowl and workouts, he is worth grabbing at 31 for San Francisco.

Desmond Trufant profileHt: 6-0 | Wt: 187

Brother of NFL cornerbacks Marcus and Isaiah Trufant

NFL comparison: Antoine Cason

Trufant flashes playmaking ability and good foot quickness, but he must play stronger and smarter, and must avoid technique breakdowns to be considered a sure-fire NFL starter. His skill set will still likely see him as a Day 2 selection. — NFL.com

Trufant earned his way onto the field as a true freshman in 2009 and showed steady progression at Washington. He had career-bests in 2011 as a junior with two interceptions and 16 passes defended, and then decided to return for his senior year. Although his senior stats weren't as impressive (one interception, nine passes defended), teams mostly stayed away from Trufant's side of the field as he was easily the Huskies' top defender. While he must refine his technique and is far from a polished product, there is no question he has the fluidity and competitiveness to fight for a spot in the first round. — CBSSports.com

Though Minter isn’t flashy, he finishes tackles, works through blocks to the backfield and commands respect from his team. He’s about as good as the Ravens can do at replacing Ray Lewis.Kevin Minter profile
Ht: 6-0 | Wt: 246
Starter for one season at LSU

NFL comparison: Takeo Spikes

Minter was the most consistent defender on a very talented defense. A junior, he fills lanes with force and takes great angles to work through trash while finishing tackles authoritatively. Some evaluators might have a concern with his lateral speed since Minter seemed to reach running backs with just enough time to spare, not to mention his tendency to lose ground when forced to open his hips and drop in coverage. Minter's toughness against the run, specifically between the tackles, and reliable angles will likely land him in the top 64 picks. — NFL.com